Activity Description

Preparation:

1. Create a list dividing students into groups that contain a mixture of ability levels
2. Create a handout that breaks down instructions for the process of summarizing the novel and clear expectations of what to include in the tableau slideshow

Implementation:

Session 1:

1. Explain to students that they will be developing a “slideshow” by putting together a series of tableaus
    a. Students choose four to six sections of the novel that they think are important to the plot and that
    together, provide a summary of the story
    b. Students write out short summaries of each of the scenes chosen
    c. Students decide on characters, student roles and how to act out each scene
    d. Students act out each scene and freeze it into a tableau
    e. Students “melt” one scene into the next by moving from one tableaus into another before acting out
    the following scene
    f. Set a time range for slideshows to fall within for the final presentation
2. Provide students with handouts of written instructions of the tableau assignment
3. Monitor group work, providing assistance when necessary
4. Based on student progress, inform students of how long they have to create and rehearse their slideshows and when they will be presenting their final slideshows to the whole class

Session 2:
1. Allow students to polish their tableau slideshows for presentation
2. Invite groups to present slideshows
3. Discuss how thinking of a novel as a series of tableaus can help students to identify the most important plot elements of the story 

Adaptations For

English Language Learners/ESL:

- Create mixed-ability groups, so that ELLs are able to work with students who are strong verbally
- Encourage students to express their ideas physically, especially as this will also assist them in creating tableaus

LD/Reading & Writing Difficulties:

- Make it clear that students can take on different roles within the group, so that all students do not have to read and write

Differentiated Instruction:

- Provide a handout that includes both instructions for the task, as well as a checklist that clearly breaks down the expectations of what is to be included in the slideshow creation and presentation process

Related References

Source:
Wilhelm, J.D. (2002). Action Strategies for Deepening Comprehension. New York: Scholastic Inc.

Evidence:
Gngr, A. (2008). Effects of Drama on the Use of Reading Comprehension Strategies and on Attitudes Toward Reading. Journal for Learning through the Arts, 4(1)